ODPA issues final registration and renewal reminder

The Office of the Data Protection Authority (ODPA) would like to remind all organisations to review and renew their existing registration before the end of February. For any eligible organisations or individuals who are not yet registered, they have until the end of February to complete the simple 5-minute process of setting up a new registration. Charities and non-profit organisations can register free of charge. 

Why register? 
It is a legal requirement for all entities (inclusive of small businesses and sole traders) that process personal data and are established in the Bailiwick to register with the ODPA.
Failure to comply with the law may result in the ODPA using its enforcement powers and pursuing cases of registration non-compliance through the Magistrate’s Court Petty Debt process. Last month the ODPA successfully took several companies to court for the non-payment of registration fees. 

How much does it cost?
The annual registration fee is based on the number of ‘full-time’ staff in each organisation and is unchanged from last year: £2,000 per year for organisations with 50 or more full-time equivalent staff, and £50 for all other entities. These levies enable the Authority to operate independently and fulfil its statutory role of regulating the local data protection law.

How do I register?
To register with the Authority, visit www.odpa.gg/registration by 29 February 2024. Anyone with questions about registration can attend a free drop-in session on any Wednesday morning between 09:00-12:00 during January and February, more details at: www.odpa.gg/drop-ins.

Guidance on registration 
There is a range of guidance and resources to support people who may be new to the registration process, as well as specific new guidance for sole traders/small businesses, and landlords at: www.odpa.gg/registration/guidance-on-registration.